Sustainability is top of the agenda for manufacturers in the packaging industry worldwide. Aware of their role in global pollution, these companies have increased the use of circular packaging, funded programs to help producers adopt climate-friendly practices, and developed innovative solutions to reduce greenhouse gas emissions throughout the supply chain.
But how can companies communicate their sustainable packaging efforts effectively, demonstrating a genuine commitment to fighting climate change and waste while adding value to their brands?
Transparency is key
As consumers become increasingly skeptical about exaggerated or misleading sustainability claims, it’s crucial for packaging manufacturers to be transparent about their progress and the challenges they face in their sustainability journey. A strong communication strategy includes identifying and promoting eco-friendly packaging or highlighting packaging design changes that reduce material use. It’s equally important to be honest about your product’s limitations – for example, if it’s made of 50% recycled material, say so rather than implying it’s fully sustainable.
Innovation that engages
Communicating the development of innovative solutions that align with industry efforts to reduce environmental impact is another great way to engage audiences. There are numerous exciting initiatives happening right now, including the recent introduction of environmentally friendly packaging like flexible pouches made from mono-materials. This type of advancement not only helps manufacturers meet sustainability targets but also makes a tangible impact on packaging waste. Beyond environmental benefits, these initiatives also present great opportunities to earn positive media coverage while reinforcing your brand’s reputation and industry credibility.
Production efficiency
Sustainability isn’t just about packaging – it also involves optimizing manufacturing processes, a message that is not always well communicated by manufacturers. Many companies are automating production lines to increase efficiency, reduce waste and lower energy consumption. Data-driven messaging plays a key role in setting your company apart, clearly demonstrating its commitment to greener operations with measurable impact.
Educating consumers
Another pivotal point is investing in educating consumers on how to make smart, ecological choices when it comes packaged products. This is particularly important because many people lack knowledge of proper recycling and composting practices and often struggle to determine the best way to dispose of packaging. Moreover, most consumers may overlook nuances that can lead to more informed, eco-friendlier purchase decisions. By creating educational content, your company establishes itself as an industry thought leader while strengthening customer trust.
How we can help you:
- Craft clear, straightforward messaging about your sustainability efforts to prevent confusion and avoid greenwashing
- Create educational content that empowers your customers to make informed decisions
- Develop targeted social media campaigns to drive engagement and amplify awareness about sustainability initiatives
- Track and analyze campaign performances, providing data-driven insights to refine your strategy as needed
- Secure media collaborations to boost brand awareness and establish trust with your audience
- Position your company as an industry authority through thought leadership content in key sustainability.
At SE10, we specialize in helping packaging companies craft impactful sustainability narratives that resonate with their audiences. Whether it’s creating a powerful social media campaign, smart thought leadership piece or engaging multimedia content, we are ready to ensure that your sustainability message makes the impact it deserves.
Get in touch to let’s discuss how we can elevate your brand’s sustainability communication strategy.
Mariana Santos
Account Director
About the author
Mariana Santos handles PR for SE10 clients in the packaging industry writing press releases, thought leadership pieces, managing social media, supporting event setup. Before joining SE10 in 2016, she had worked as journalist for 15 years in Brazil, Germany and the U.S.
